Could this be because I'm not moving on to Phase 2 (doing Phase 1 an extra week)? I just feel like really bloated and that I am gaining weight instead of losing. Should I try tracking my calories to make sure I'm not eating too much? I haven't actually weighed myself, but I feel like I'm gaining...

Also, I'm craving something crunchy. Like chips, but no I can't have them. Anyone heard of Pop Chips? I wonder if those would be decent on Phase 2? They look good....

I think you should move on to phase 2. I'm not an expert by any means, this is only my second week on phase 1, but I've read the book. More than 2 weeks on phase one is not recommended. Your body probably needs more variety or something. (Plus, I'm following in your footsteps and need you to figure out phase 2 for me!)

I'm hoping that some of the more experienced members will chime in!

Yes, the book strongly discourages staying in Phase 1 for too long. There are lots of reasons - one is that it is so restrictive. It's not realistic to stay that restricted over the long term, and if you do you'll be missing out on the nutritional benefits from whole grains and fruit.

It is scary to move on, I know - and my weight loss has slowed WAY down compared to Phase 1. But losing slowly really is the best way to do it, and you'll be more likely to keep the weight off that way.

I'm gonna have to stay on Phase 1 until friday. Grocery/money reasons. I am just wondering if I am eating to much though, because I don't weigh anything. Today is hard because DH switched schedules and so we have to eat lunch WAY earlier then I'm used to, so now I feel like I'm starving. I have had a couple of snacks, but still just want to keep eating. This is the first day like this for me. Its hard...

You could just be bloated. No reason to assume you are gaining if you haven't measured or gotten on the scale. Some days are like that For me it's hot weather, I swear I'm 10 lbs heavier.

You can always add calorie counting as a secondary method if you really think you need the extra control. For now just focus on eating healthy and transitioning to Phase 2 when you are able.

Made with potatoes & potato starch. It's a no-no.

Crunchy sounds really good! What's crunchy with no sugar or starch excluding carrots and celery?

I would recommend making the roasted chickpeas. You can also play around with a variety of spices. They are always good when you are craving something crunchy. And, tons of protein and filling.

turkey pepperoni in the microwave, cheese crisps too. Hang in there!

I did phase 1 for 3 weeks, too, (for convenience sake) and have no regrets.

However, I almost always have constipation issues on phase 1, making me feel bloated/heavier. SF fiber choice chewables and lots of water make a huge difference for me. sunflower seeds, pistachios or almonds are my favorite crunchy phase 1 snacks.

I recently discovered these cheese crisps: http://www.kitchentablebakers.com/pr...talianherb.php

They are crunchy and very satisfying. The amount of saturated fat in 3 crisps is the same as in a part-skim string cheese stick. I usually just have one and that does the trick.

Crunchy ideas: Since I'm a chipaholic I was looking for salty crunchy. I made zucchini chips in the oven - finished drying them in the microwave, and they weren't bad! A little bitter, so I'm going to try pre-salting and rinsing next time. But truly - the finish off in the microwave made them as crunchy as potato chips!

Thanks for all the suggestions. I am up 3 pounds. :P I know it can flucuate, but I feel like I have gained too. I think part of it is I am eating WAY to much cheese...I add it to too much stuff, so I'm going to try cutting back on that for the next few days. I also have been having Dr's appointments every day almost so, I think it could also be stress. Thanks again!

Those are good! Thanks!